About
Our mission is to empower youth with real-world job skills to create music and artistic media.
At Modesto Sound, we believe in the power of music and community. Our recording studio is open to all ages, offering live sound services and hands-on job training for youth.
Over the years, we’ve recorded 650+ artists, hosted hundreds of concerts, produced over 180 radio shows featuring interviews with artists, community members, and local leaders, and created thousands of public service announcements.
Our passion is helping young people build skills, confidence, and connections through music. Many participants return again and again, bringing their energy and ideas to keep our mission thriving. Our programs include a Summer Recording Arts Music Camp and The Job Circle, an ongoing job training program designed to prepare youth for careers in the music and sound industries.
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3), we work hand-in-hand with local organizations to amplify our collective impact. Grants, donations, and community support make our programs possible and help us continue empowering youth through music and creativity. Our dedicated Board of Directors is made up of volunteers who share a vision for building a stronger, more connected community through sound.
Interested in getting involved or attending a board meeting? Contact us to learn how you can be part of our mission.
Youth Program Testimonial from a Caring Grandmother
5 years ago I had a 10-year-old grandson, Tristan, who had a passion for music. Besides taking piano lessons, when summer came he was lost. I had heard about Modesto Sound through Rotary and called Brenda Francis to get more information. To our luck, the summer camp was starting the following week. I quickly signed Tristan up and have to say it was the highlight of the summer for him. As soon as we walked into the door it felt like home. There were numerous kids who also had a passion for music. The teachers were all musicians and connected with all the “campers”. He learned different types of music, participated in not only writing a song, but at the end of the week was actually able to perform on stage. He learned about sound equipment and recording. He was taken on field trips to radio stations, the Gallo Arts Center, State Theatre, California State University Stanislaus. He was taken on tours where sound systems were not only explained but available for hands on experience.
One summer led to another sound camp session, which led to another and so on. Through the course of the last 5 years, Tristan has excelled in music and is now writing, performing and recording original songs. He plays piano, drums, guitar, does vocals and writes. He has had some amazing recording sessions at Modesto Sound and has learned behind the scene the ins and outs of recording various instruments and coming out with an original CD.
Our community is fortunate to have this program for our youth. Modesto Sound is an opportunity for our children to have the ability to take their passion for music to another level. All the staff involved in this program are professional and are seen frequently at community events. Tristan is passionate about Modesto Sound and all the opportunities it has allowed him.
Thank You for keeping this program alive in our city!